VICSES supports Neighbour Day 2023

VICSES supports Neighbour Day 2023

24/03/2023, 3:00 PM


Well-connected neighbourhoods are better equipped to face, and recover from, emergencies and natural disasters. That’s why this year, the Victoria State Emergency Service (VICSES) is encouraging you to reach out on Neighbour Day this Sunday 26 March, and start to build on those important connections.

Following last year’s floods, the need to have strong social support networks has never been more important or simple, such as reaching out to your neighbour on Sunday to introduce yourself.

We know from international research and comparisons with communities affected by natural disasters, such as Tamil Nadu - following the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami - and New Orleans following Hurricane Katrina, that communities with robust social networks were better able to cope and recover.

In addition to sharing information, financial help, and physical support, communities were able to avoid a flight of people and valuable resources out of the area.

Closer to home, your neighbour may also be lending you their vital support as your first responder, during a storm or flood event.

There are many benefits to respectful and cooperative relationships, besides resilience to disasters: the feeling of being supported, and of returning that support, can lead to changes in mental health and wellbeing.

Strengthening your community starts with reaching out to your neighbour. Once you have created those positive relationships, you have an understanding of who might be vulnerable during an emergency. This may help to save lives. 

Neighbour Day takes place on Sunday 26 March and is a day of action for Relationships Australia’s Neighbours Every Day campaigns the 2023 theme of which is to “create belonging”.

How can I get involved? 

On Sunday 26th March, all you do is introduce yourself to your neighbours, whether it’s through a a chat over a cup of tea, a friendly note under the door, or even a street party. 

You can share your experience on social media using the hashtag #CreateBelonging #NeighboursEveryDay and #NeighbourDay.

For more information visit, https://neighbourseveryday.org.

The critical role of social capital in the ability of a community to withstand disaster and rebuild both the infrastructure and the ties that are at the foundation of any community.

Reach out to your neighbours on Sunday!